Help Baby Emmett Fight SMA

Meet my nephew, Baby Emmett. Born on May 2nd, 2011. 
He has been in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at St. Luke\'s Children's Hospital in Boise since June 29th 2011. He has a non-curable genetic disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Type 1. Emmett is the first recorded baby in Idaho to have type 1, so resources are limited, and eventually my brother\'s family will have to relocate to give Emmett the best quality of life possible.

It is so sad, to watch him suffer. You can see in his eyes that he understands what's going on, and it is heart breaking to see his fear every time he struggles to breath.  However, the joy on his face when he sees his big brothers, and other friendly visitors, is so precious and heartwarming.

Donations from this site will go towards helping give Baby Emmett the best quality of life, and help with: pediatric pulmonology, pediatric neurology, pediatric orthopedic surgery, lower extremity & spinal orthosis, pediatric critical care, and physical medicine and rehabilitation; and physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and clinical nutrition expenses.

Spinal muscular atrophy an inherited disease that cause progressive muscle degeneration and weakness, eventually leading to death. The lifespan in SMA type I is seldom longer than 2 - 3 years. Emmett will need breathing support, and a feeding tube for the duration of his life. 

For more inforamtion on SMA you can visit www.curesma.com

EDIT ON 7/20/2011

Emmett Mason Stansell passed away this morning. He will always be loved, and remembered. He has touched so many hearts, of even those who never had the chance to meet him, and from his pain has come awareness of such a horrible disease, and our family has been brought closer together because of it.  We will continue to spread awareness of the tragedy this illness causes, and support those who are also in similar situations, and support research on this matter.

In the mean time, Emmett's parents and older brothers would like to thank all those who have been supportive during this tough time, and they are grateful for all the love and kindness from everyone.

Bills are still an issue for my brother's family; however the main focus right now is on Emmett's passing and the arrangements being made in relation to this emotional time. I would like to thank all who have contributed to my nephew and his family. Your love is welcomed and cherished, and I am thankful that we have so many great friends, and people in this world.